Metal VS Asphalt: How To Decide Which Roof Is Best For You

When you ask most people what type of roof they want you generally get a shoulder shrug followed by “which one costs more?” When it comes to roofing, the answers are a lot more complex. The roof is the most important surface in your home; it’s something you want to put a lot of thought into.

There are many factors to consider when deciding between a metal and asphalt roof. These range from up front cost to long-term cost, geographical location, climate and the list goes on.

Follow this useful guide to educate yourself on roofs and decide which one is right for you.

Cost:

You would think the most straightforward subject in our analysis would be cost, but it’s not that simple. It really depends on what your budget allows for in terms of upfront costs and long term budgeting.

Upfront, asphalt roofs are much less expensive, but long term you are looking at frequent repairs, which include material and labor costs. Additionally, you’re looking at a maximum warranty of 25 years.

With a metal roof the upfront cost is more substantial, but if it’s the right roof for you, don’t be deterred. The long-term benefits are incomparable. Metal is a much more durable material: Repairs are rare and warranties range from 50 years to lifetime.

Functionality:

In regards to sound proofing, there generally isn’t a big difference, provided that the metal roof is properly insulated. The biggest differences are in respect to climate control.

Asphalt roofs are great in cold weather. Asphalt shingles absorb heat and could save you considerable heating dollars in the winter months. If your metal roof isn’t properly insulated it could spike your winter energy bill, which isn’t a big deal in warm climates. In colder climates, as long as it’s properly insulated, you won’t find any significant differences in your bill.

The biggest discrepancy is in a warm climate. While asphalt roofs do wonders for you in the winter, they are abysmal in the summer. All those heat absorption properties work against and keep your house very hot, necessitating constant air conditioning on hot days. On the flip side, metal reflects sunlight minimizing absorption, keeping your home cooler with less air conditioning.

An important take away from this is that air conditioning is far more expensive than heating. Overall you’re looking at lower energy bills with metal, especially if it’s properly insulated.

Conclusion:

If you live in a temperate climate you can easily get away with an asphalt roof. The lack of extreme weather will lessen your use of climate control and you won’t be dealing with many deteriorating factors that could lead to repairs, such as snow and hail.

Metal roofs work well in any climate. It can withstand cold if properly insulated and it’s ideal for heat. Not only would it withstand rain, hail, and snow better, but should also be seriously considered if you live somewhere with extreme weather. It’s far more likely to withstand rainstorms, tropical storms, hurricanes, and tornadoes.

Ultimately you have to go with what you can afford, but if you look at long-term benefits, it may be worthwhile to stretch the budget for the initial cost of a Metal Roof. It will save you far more in the long run, especially if you plan on living in the same house for a while.